Parametric analysis and new design formulas of a prefabricated energy-dissipating composite slotted shear wall

In a conventional wall frame system, shear walls typically exhibit less deformation capacity under earthquakes than the frame. In this study, an innovative prefabricated slotted composite shear wall was proposed, abbreviated as CDSW. Featured with concrete-filled-tube (CFT) wall segments, I-shaped steel connectors, vertical slots and bolted connections with the frame, the CDSW has significantly improved deformation capacity, energy dissipation capacity and construction efficiency compared with conventional shear walls. Its seismic behaviors were investigated through applying quasi-static cyclic loads, where the specimen exhibited satisfactory cyclic response. Based on the test results, finite element analysis (FEA) models were established to validate the test results, and 12 parametric FEA cases were conducted to optimize the parameters of CDSWs. A new design method of a CDSW with highly accurate formulas was proposed based on a new parameter termed as equivalent stiffness ratio (ESR). With ESR, the stiffness and internal force of a CDSW can be obtained with satisfactory precision. Based on the analytical result and the new design formulas, it can be concluded that the ESR between 0.706 and 1.25 is recommended for practical engineering applications, which took into consideration the governing factors of yield and peak strength, stiffness, deformation capacity and energy dissipation. Additionally, the installation of the upper and lower sets of connectors at about 40% and 60% of the height of CDSW is suggested, respectively.